MURKOMEN CONDEMNS LENIENT BAIL, ANNOUNCES 1,500 ARRESTS AFTER PROTESTS

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has condemned the Ksh 50,000 cash bail granted to suspects accused of invading Kitengela Hospital during the recent Saba Saba protests, terming it “too lenient” given the gravity of the incident.
Speaking on Monday, July 15, 2025, Murkomen expressed concern over what he called a “slap on the wrist” for individuals accused of disrupting a cesarean procedure and causing panic among patients and health workers. The CS warned that such acts of impunity, if not firmly punished, could embolden more lawlessness.
“The criminal justice system must not treat these kinds of invasions casually. Interfering with a medical facility during a delicate procedure is not just illegal — it’s inhumane,” Murkomen stated.
The Interior CS also disclosed that over 1,500 individuals have been arrested nationwide in connection with recent protest-related unrest. He said those in custody face charges ranging from terrorism, arson, and malicious property damage to attempted murder.
In a separate announcement ahead of the CHAN 2025 football tournament, Murkomen said police officers will not be stationed inside stadiums during matches. Instead, crowd management will be handled by specially trained stewards starting today.
“We want the world to see Kenya as a safe, welcoming country,” he added. “Let’s showcase the best of our culture during CHAN. Be on your best behavior.”
The statements come amid growing pressure on the government over its handling of protests and heightened security operations countrywide.